Defend the right to abortion
Far-right politicians want to limit the right to abortion. Like other anti-choice campaigners they want to control our bodies and our lives.
Politicians could change the Abortion Act 1967 and make it more difficult or even illegal to get an abortion. We have already seen this in other countries, like the USA.
We need to mobilise now to protect and extend our rights.
Keep abortion free and delivered by the NHS - no cuts, no clinical care outsourcing
Criticism and underfunding are tactics often used to privatise public services.
We want abortion clinical provision to remain delivered by the NHS in Scotland not outsourced to any other organisation.
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We want any gaps in services to be met by additional funding.
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Treat abortion as healthcare
To continue or end a pregnancy is a personal decision between us and our doctors and nurses.
Abortion in Scotland is only available if you meet the requirements of the Abortion Act 1967. It is still the case that two doctors are needed to decide if someone fits the criteria to be allowed an abortion.
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Almost all those wanting an abortion under 24 weeks fit at least one of these criteria. But if they ended their pregnancy without the permission of two doctors, they could face a prison sentence. A doctor or a nurse could also face criminal charges if they provide an abortion without it first being signed off by two doctors.
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This makes abortion less accessible. It makes it more complicated to provide care. Many senior nurses and midwives currently provide miscarriage care, but the law means they are not allowed to provide abortion care independently. This can cause problems, particularly in rural areas, where there are shortages of doctors.
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Abortion care should be regulated by healthcare bodies and clinical guidance. It should neither be defined by legal restrictions, nor treated as a criminal matter.
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Who are we?
Abortion Rights Scotland is an activist organisation built by its members and supporters. We campaign for free, safe, legal, local abortion services, free from harassment, provided and delivered by the NHS in Scotland.
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We are all volunteers and there is always lots to do.
You can engage with our social media, join our protests.
Help on our stalls at events across Scotland.
Take our ideas into your student movement, trade union or any other organisation you are involved with.
We need you and your ideas.
You can contribute so don’t hold back.
Contact us today, join us, follow us.
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We are not a funded organisation. We are independent.
Our activities are financed by individual membership fees and our affiliates.